The 2025 PWHL Draft is officially in the books, and for the Ottawa Charge, it was a mix of strategic decisions and a few surprises. With six picks, Ottawa addressed key needs across the lineup, selecting a defender, four forwards and a goaltender from both North America and Europe. Some picks were expected. Others raised eyebrows. But all reflect a clear vision for how this team is being built.

Here’s how it all played out.

With the fifth overall pick, Ottawa selected Cornell captain and standout defender Rory Guilday. The 5-foot-11 blueliner from Chanhassen, Minnesota transitioned from centre to defence during her junior career and hasn’t looked back. She uses her frame well, skates with power, and plays a physical, shutdown style that fits perfectly into Ottawa’s system.

“The main thing I’ve heard is just how spectacular this city is and how much support the team gets, and that’s pretty incredible,” said Guilday following her selection, referencing conversations with fellow Minnesotans who’ve played in Ottawa. Her blend of size, leadership, and defensive reliability makes her a natural fit for a team looking to build from the back end out.

In the second round, the Charge turned to international talent, selecting Russian forward Anna Shokhina from Dynamo-Neva St. Petersburg in the ZhHL. A prolific scorer and multiple Best Player Awards. Shokhina is a dynamic skater with quick hands and elite playmaking instincts. She is a constant threat in the offensive zone and should provide immediate scoring depth.

With their third pick, Ottawa selected forward Sarah Wozniewicz out of the University of Wisconsin. The Cochrane, Alberta native recorded a career-high 21 points in her final NCAA season, but it’s her physical play and puck protection that really stand out. Strong on the forecheck and reliable in tough matchups, she brings a middle-six presence the Charge will value. There's also familiarity here, as head coach Carla MacLeod coached Wozniewicz in high school.

In the fourth round, the Charge added another NCAA standout, selecting Peyton Hemp from the University of Minnesota. Hemp, a native of Andover, Minnesota, finished her senior year with 33 points in 42 games and has earned a reputation as a dependable 200-foot player. She consistently creates high-danger scoring chances and adds versatility to Ottawa’s forward group.

With their fifth pick, Ottawa turned to goaltending, selecting Sanni Ahola from St. Cloud State. Ahola posted a 2.22 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage last season. Known for her calm presence in net, sharp lateral movement, and ability to stay square to shooters, she brings both poise and pedigree. A regular fixture with Team Finland, she projects as a strong backup to starter Gwyneth Philips.

Ottawa’s final pick of the draft was forward Fanuza Kadirova, also from Dynamo-Neva. Able to play both centre and left wing, Kadirova brings a wealth of international experience, having medalled at multiple championships with the Russian national team. She adds depth and flexibility to a forward group that’s becoming increasingly well-rounded.

“We’re really excited about the players we added. I think we filled some holes in our roster that we lost through expansion,” said GM Mike Hirshfeld. “I feel like we’re in a really good spot. It was fun to hear the fans cheer the names of our new players.”

For the Charge, this draft was about building balance across the board. They added players who can contribute immediately, while also investing in talent with high ceilings and meaningful international or collegiate experience. With reinforcements at forward, a sturdy presence on defence, and a proven goaltender, Ottawa leaves the 2025 draft looking deeper, tougher, and more prepared for what’s ahead.